Who We Are

The XTRM/SPRL Space Physics Research Laboratory in the College of Engineering is seeking an experienced, highly motivated Electronic Technician to provide technical and project support for current and future space mission and instrument development projects.

XTRM/SPRL Labs is a facility of the College of Engineering that serves clients who are faculty, government agencies (such as NASA and DoD), and commercial companies in the development of unique integrated systems and instrumentation that are often used in challenging environments (e.g. space, artic, above/on/below the water). The XTRM/SPRL Lab professional staff, with faculty and researchers, have built more than 35 space systems and instruments; instrumented numerous sounding rockets, balloons, and aircraft; and developed ground-based instruments. For seven decades, this lab has been one of a handful of university centers able to conceive, design, construct, test, and operate space flight instruments — a truly "end-to-end" operation.

Michigan Engineers are world-class educators, researchers, students and staff who strive to build a people-first future. As part of the nation’s number one public research institution, Michigan Engineering's mission is to provide scientific and technological leadership to the people of the world, develop intellectually curious and socially conscious minds, create collaborative solutions to societal problems, and promote an inclusive and innovative community of service for the common good.

Our vision, mission and values are supported by a people-first engineering framework that guides our work. As Michigan Engineers, we strive to apply excellent engineering fundamentals, integrated expertise and equity-centered values to reimagine what engineering can be, close critical gaps, and elevate all people. Information about our vision, mission and values can be found at: http://strategicvision.engin.umich.edu/.

The University of Michigan has a storied legacy of commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Michigan Engineering models that commitment in our research, culture and collaborations. We seek to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of that commitment. Learn more about DEI at Michigan Engineering: https://www.engin.umich.edu/culture/diversity-equity-inclusion/

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

Generous time off
A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
Life insurance
Long-term disability coverage
Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
Maternity and Parental Leave
Responsibilities*

Actively participate in the development of hardware to ensure highly reliable, verifiable end products. This position will be required to interpret manufacturing documentation and assemble complex electronic and mechanical systems to NASA, IPC and similar standards.

Preparation of components (tinning, resistor measurements, verify kit), component staking, masking for conformal coating/foaming, magnetic placement, box build assembly, wire harness assembly (crimping and soldering wires), and cable assembly (crimping and soldering wires) to an engineering drawing, wire list, BOM and manufacturing instructions.

Work in project teams with scientists, engineers, designers, technicians, machinists, and students to develop instruments for laboratory, ground based, airborne, and space.

Required Qualifications*

Associate’s Degree in Electronics Technology, or equivalent experience directly related to the duties of this position.
2 to 4 years’ experience working as an engineering or electronics technician in a production or R&D environment.
Ability to carry out complex manufacturing efficiently and accurately.
Demonstrated ability for hand soldering (including surface mount devices), polymeric application, and ESD control.
Understanding of common electronics manufacturing processes.
Ability to follow common electronics manufacturing documentation (schematic diagrams, assembly documentation, process documentation, change orders, etc.).
Working knowledge of IPC or other NASA workmanship standards.
Experience working constructively as a member of project teams.
U.S. Citizenship required.